The EPA has been conducting a 5-year, state-of-the-science assessment to determine the potential impacts of hydraulic fracturing activities on drinking water resources in the United States. On June 4th, the EPA released an External Review Draft report, titled Assessment of the Potential Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing for Oil and Gas on Drinking Water Resources.
The assessment found that “hydraulic fracturing activities have not led to widespread, systematic impacts to drinking water resources” but also “identifies important vulnerabilities to drinking water resources.”
ToxStrategies staff have been actively involved in assessing the potential human health impacts of natural gas exploration and production activities. Example projects include those involving conducting safety assessments for hydraulic fracturing fluids, assessing potential human health risks associated with impacts on ambient air, and assessing human health risks associated with accidental releases during drilling activities.
The full EPA report can be viewed here.